2017 Canada Automotive Sales Research
In 2017, the Canadian automotive market experienced another transformative year, marked by both continuities from prior years and the emergence of new dynamics. The year 2017 was noteworthy for the Canadian automotive industry, as it marked a fifth consecutive record year for auto sales. For the first time, sales exceeded 2 million units, underscoring Canada's robust automotive demand. The Canadian preference for trucks, SUVs, and crossovers was even more prominent in 2017. These vehicles accounted for a significant majority of all new vehicle sales, further shrinking the market share for sedans and compact cars. The Canadian economy displayed resilience and growth in 2017, supporting the demand for vehicles. However, regional disparities persisted, with provinces like Alberta still grappling with the repercussions of low oil prices. Despite the continuous popularity of models like the Honda Civic, compact and mid-sized sedans faced challenges in market share as consumer preference skewed heavily towards SUVs and trucks. The appetite for luxury vehicles showed no sign of slowing down. Premium brands, including Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Audi, and Lexus, experienced robust sales, indicating a strong consumer preference for upscale vehicles. Asian automakers, notably Toyota, Honda, Hyundai, and Kia, continued their strong performance. The repercussions of Volkswagen's "Dieselgate" began to subside, with the brand slowly regaining consumer trust. Domestic brands, riding on the success of their truck and SUV models, had a strong showing.